Diversity and Inclusion




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Military and Veteran Students

Veteran students and their family members (in some cases) can apply their VA benefits to their study abroad experience, but it is important to plan ahead. It is recommended that you work closely with the Iowa State Veterans Center and your VA Certifying official in the Registrar’s Office. It is important to know that VA benefits will only cover the equivalent of ISU tuition and that VA benefits cannot be applied to all types of programs. Contact your study abroad advisor for additional information.
 

Here are some other facts you should know concerning study abroad for military veterans:

•  Students must be enrolled in courses that will apply toward one of their majors.
•  The programs at the “host” school in the foreign country must be approved.
•  VA could provide a monthly housing allowance to the student, if the student is enrolled more than ½-time that the student uses to help pay room and board costs.
•  VA could provide a books and supplies stipend.
•  VA will pay no charges directly to the host school.
•  VA could not pay for any fees specifically due to participation in the study abroad program unless study abroad was mandatory for the specific degree.
•  VA cannot pay airfare.

If you are currently serving in the military, Reserves, or National Guard, you will have to communicate and work with your unit at least 6 months ahead of time so both you and your unit can make a plan, be better prepared, and determine your best course of action.

Iowa State Veteran’s Certifying Officials Contact Information

Iowa National Guard Service Scholarship (INGSS)

Iowa State Military-Affiliated Student Center

 

Testimonial from a National Guard student who studied abroad:
“Even though I’m currently serving in the National Guard, I knew I wanted to do an Annual Study Abroad, but I didn’t know where to start or how to go about it with my unit because of all the time I would miss out on training. With the support of the Veterans Center, Iowa State University and my own research, I gained the support to help set me up for success when communicating with my unit on how to go about the process. My Study Abroad experience was well worth the hassle just to get there. It is an eye-opening experience unlike any other, especially when compared to the military lifestyle it’s a complete 180. It provided me with an experience that I’ll never forget.”

Rachel Dankbar, France
Marketing and International Business, Class of 2017